Once again, Jerusalem becomes the meeting point for all Christians who wish to commemorate the triumphant entry of Jesus into the Holy City. Palms, olive branches, shouts of joy, “Hosannas” mixed with chants of praise, dances… demonstrate that it is a day of celebration. However, we carry something in our hearts this year: the uncertainty from knowing we won’t all be there.
A procession of thousands of people is reduced to a few hundred; the absence of pilgrims and many communities and villages due to the current conflict is felt. But the local Christians of the Holy Land are clear that it is time to lift their gaze, to come together and loudly acclaim the Lord, as demonstrated in this descent from Bethphage on the Mount of Olives to the entrance into Jerusalem.
The presence of a God who sustains His people in moments of desolation is felt, a God who watches, observes, and suffers with His people, who embraces pain and generosity, transforming them into blessings.
Indeed, every Christian present in that procession was like the donkey that carried Jesus on that path to the entrance of the Holy City. Every step, every dance, every praise, every song was the “Yes” that our Lord needed to proclaim to the world that the Kingdom of God is here, that it is within us, and that is why we are willing to walk the paths of Jesus even if they lead us to Easter because, for us, there is only one King. We know that everything that disturbs our peace comes not from God but from those false kings with whom we align ourselves daily.
Jesus knew what would happen after He entered Jerusalem; He knew it would not be easy. He observed the people who acclaimed Him, knowing they would demand His crucifixion. What were His feelings? What did He carry in His heart? He entrusted everything to His Father because He was confident that glory would come after the path of the cross.
Similarly, we know the resurrection will fill us with hope, but let us not forget that our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land are suffering on a more extended and heavier path. Let us unite with them in prayer, keep them in our lives, and collaborate with those religious communities that remain in the Holy Land and are supporting Christians at this time, and if possible, let us return to the Holy Land as pilgrims.
Every Good Friday, the Church calls on all Christians worldwide to support the holy places and sustain the Christians of the Holy Land. We also invite you to join this Good Friday collection in a moment of great need.
